DIY Barn Door Projects—10 Creative Ways to Update Your Space

Barn doors bring warmth, character, and versatility to a space. They're a versatile design element that can transform any interior with a welcome sense of homely, timeless charm. Whether you’re installing a sliding barn door for a rustic touch or preparing to create something newly decorative with your supplies, the possibilities are endless. With the right tools (like a barn door hardware kit, some creativity, and a little bit of free time) you can tackle a variety of DIY barn door projects to boost your home’s aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Let’s explore some inspiring DIY barn door project ideas and discuss how you can bring them to life with barn door hardware kits. 

1) Install a sliding barn door for a statement entrance

A sliding barn door is one of the more popular DIY projects, offering both aesthetic and practical benefits, without needing too much planning. The sliding aspect makes these doors a dynamic divider for household spaces, such as a living room and dining area, and can also be exploited to create a stylish and functional alternative to traditional closet doors.

To get started, you’ll need a sliding barn door hardware kit that includes all the essentials, such as the track, rollers, and mounting hardware. 

2) Create a custom barn door headboard

If you fancy going down an unconventional route, you can turn a rustic barn door into a stunning headboard that will act as the centerpiece of your bedroom. 

Some steps in this process include: 

• Choosing a barn door style that complements your room’s design.

• Sand and paint or stain the door to match your color scheme.

• Mount the door securely to the wall behind your bed.

To complete the look, consider pairing it with matching barn door hardware, such as decorative straps or handles, for added charm.

3) Build a barn door coffee table

In the interest of upcycling, why not repurpose old barn doors into a unique coffee table that blends rustic and modern elements? This project would involve steps like cutting the barn door to size, attaching sturdy legs, and sealing the surface for durability. For more visual texture, you can use small pieces of leftover barn door hardware as accents, like corner brackets or handles. This will help to give your table an authentic barn-inspired touch.

4) Install exterior barn doors for patio areas

This is a return to more traditional barn door projects, with exterior barn doors being a stylish way to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Use them to cover patio entrances or as shutters for large windows. For this project, opt for durable exterior barn door hardware that can withstand the elements. Make sure to seek out weather-resistant hardware kits designed for outdoor use.

5) Add sliding barn doors to cabinetry

Miniature sliding barn doors are a surefire tool for elevating your cabinetry, whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or your home office. These doors effectively cover open shelving—great for hiding clutter while adding a touch of rustic charm. 

For this project, you’ll need a scaled-down sliding barn door hardware kit along with your smaller door. These kits include shorter tracks and smaller rollers, making them perfect for DIY cabinetry projects that don’t require too much muscle.

6) Design a barn door room divider

Barn doors make excellent room dividers—you can use them to section off a home office, playroom, or reading nook without permanently closing off the space. This is particularly useful for homes with pre-existing open-plan designs. 

You can install a single large barn door or a pair of sliding barn doors on a double track. A barn door latch hardware kit is also great for securing the doors when needed.

7) Craft a barn door wall art piece

If you really want to let your creative juices run freely, lean into your most artistic impulses to transform a barn door into a piece of wall art. Paint or stencil designs onto the door, or use it as a backdrop for hanging decorative items like wreaths or framed photos. To further boost the visual appeal, you can add a decorative barn door hardware kit—even if the door isn’t functional.

8) Build a barn door console table

Combine form and function by creating a console table with barn door-inspired sliding panels. This project is perfect for entryways or living rooms, providing storage and a rustic, yet sophisticated aesthetic. Barn door tracks can also be used to install sliding panels that conceal shelves or compartments, adding a unique twist of practicality and charm to your furniture piece.

9) Upgrade your laundry room with barn doors

Laundry appliances and storage shelves aren’t particularly pretty—so why not conceal them with a sliding barn door. This project is an effective way to add a stylish touch to a utilitarian space, incorporating personality into a part of the house that could otherwise be a little drab. 

10) Repurpose barn doors for outdoor privacy screens

Barn doors can also be used outdoors as privacy screens or as decorative fencing elements. Arrange multiple doors in a row and secure them with hinges or a sturdy frame for a unique back or front yard feature. For added durability, use exterior barn door hardware that can withstand exposure to weather.

Let your artistic brain soar!

DIY barn door projects offer endless opportunities to add character and functionality to your home. From traditional installations to more avant-garde approaches to DIY, the materials available offer creatives a plethora of opportunities to express their artistic spirit while flexing their handyman muscles.

Ready to bring your ideas to life? Explore the extensive selection of barn door hardware kits, barn door latch hardware, and other essentials at The Barn Door Hardware Store. Thanks to our exciting range of high-quality products and expert support, your next DIY barn door project is just a step away!